Thailand’s Five religions sends a strong Message to Paris

On thursday 19th of November, the five recognized and known religions of Thailand came together to unite in a march of Peace and condolence for the people Paris. These religions include Christians, Muslims, Buddhist, Hindu and Sikh communities; each offered prayers from their own faith tradition and signed a book of condolences.

The Catholic Church was greatly represented in the march, Bishop Bishop Joseph Chusak Sirisut of Nakhon Ratchasima represented the Catholic Church in the midst of other religious leaders. Bishop Joseph Chusak Sirisut of Nakhon Ratchasima is the Head of Thailand Bishops’ office for interreligious dialogue. The march drew many attention in Thailand as many whose religions were not necessarily represented joined the “March for Peace in Paris” that day.

The five religions had forth representatives during the event who conducted prayers for Peace in accordance to their various faith and Traditions. Bishop Chusak conducted the Catholic church’s section of the prayer in the event.

what made the event a heart touching one was a collective message to the people of Paris that the Five Religions pronounced to the French ambassador Gilles Garachon which reads:

“We join in prayer for the dead, the injured, and the families affected by this tragedy. May the Merciful Almighty grant the victims eternal rest and offer consolation and hope to the injured and their families.”

“Our march for peace today is a symbol of the unity of the five major religious traditions in Thailand. Together we implore the Almighty above to inspire and strengthen us for the building of peace.”

“Violence resolves nothing, and we vigorously condemn every act of violence perpetrated in the name of religion,” they continued. “We invite all to join hands with us to build a sustainable peace through justice, solidarity, and non-discrimination with regard to nationality, religion, caste and color.”